Mr. John Hennessy:

We can identify departures from what would be recommended prescribing patterns. We deal with them under two headings. The reference pricing approach for interchangeable products applies a direct control in that we are reimbursing only the lower cost product. If the GP continues to prescribe a branded product the Exchequer is not liable for the difference in cost. The second approach is aimed at GPs through Professor Barry's programme, which encourages doctors through better information on the recommended products, as opposed to the higher cost product. That is an extensive programme which involves meeting large groups of GPs to influence their prescribing patterns.